What to Do About Ongoing Chronic Low Back Pain

Posted on 10-03-2016

A large percentage of the population of the United States will experience a significant episode of lower back pain before the age of 40. Significant lower back pain is defined as more than the mild soreness one gets after physical activity like gardening or vacuuming the house. Lower back pain of significance is a very intense to excruciating pain and keeps one from normal activities such as sleeping well, being able to do chores at home or in the yard, interfering with job duties, taking care of children and family members, being able to bath, get dressed, drive and cook for oneself, and being able to enjoy recreational activities like golfing, exercise and hobbies.

Overall, the evidence is that lower back pain does not resolve itself when ignored. For this reason lower back pain of significance is a controversial subject. Many health professionals and insurance companies tend to still believe that lower back pain is a condition that resolves on its own within a period of time. They also believe that if the pain returns the patient should just “deal with it” and it will go away at some point.

Yet scientific studies do not show this to be the case. Significant lower back pain tends to not go away or resolve itself on its own. It is not a health condition that should be ignored. For instance, a comprehensive research study published in The European Spine Journal in 2003 reported that 62% of patients who had a major episode of low back pain still experienced pain 12 months after it began. The percentage of people who experienced relapses or re-occurrences of back pain after an initial episode was 60%. And 33% of those experiencing an episode of pain in their back had relapses of work absences within one year.

Since it is clearly apparent that chronic lower back pain is a condition that requires professional treatment and supervision what is the preferred method of management?

Fortunately, this also has been studied and the solution is chiropractic care. Chiropractic treatment is performed by licensed doctors of chiropractic. Chiropractors have extensive training in the anatomy and biomechanics of the lower back. They also are able to expertly diagnosis the causes of mechanical/physical lower back pain. Once a chiropractor has examined a patient and determined what is causing the lower back pain they can then administer chiropractic manipulative therapy, sometimes called a chiropractic adjustment. Chiropractic manipulations work to realign the spine and to correct abnormal movements of the spine.

Two research studies were done to determine an effective way for patients and doctors to treat chronic lower back pain with chiropractic care. The studies gave a number of patients chiropractic adjustments three times a week for four weeks. With this care patients made substantial improvement with their degree of pain and their abilities to perform normal activities of daily living. Half of the patients then ended their care. The other half of the patients were then given chiropractic manipulation once every two or three weeks for a period of nine months. Those patients continuing care not only maintained their improvement of pain reduction and function of daily living activities but also had further gains. The patients whose care was discontinued regressed back to the original pain and dysfunction they initially exhibited.

Chiropractic therapy has been shown to be more effective for lower back pain than medication, exercises or surgery. It has also been proven to be the safest of all treatment for back pain as well as the least costly. Consumer Reports has also published information that shows chiropractors have very high satisfaction rates among patients.

The next step in the treatment and management of chronic low back pain is to recognize it as a condition similar to high blood pressure or diabetes and realize that with some degree of periodic maintenance or supportive care we can effectively help patients with ongoing chronic lower back pain.

To learn more about appropriate, non-surgical, drug-free treatment of lower back pain visit this site. Please visit Dr. James Schofield's website.

Help For Your Migraine Headaches

Posted on 09-19-2016

Anyone who has ever suffered with a migraine headache knows how debilitating and painful it can be. In many cases, there does not seem to be much that can be done to alleviate the discomfort. Fortunately, many people have found a safe, effective drug free method of treatment for migraine headaches through chiropractic care.

In the past, many traditional health care practitioners did not believe chiropractor’s and their patient’s claims that migraine relief was possible with chiropractic treatment. However new research affirms that patients really do show considerable improvement of their migraine headache symptoms when seen for therapy by a chiropractor.

Migraine headaches differ by the patient and are sometimes confusing to diagnose but among the most common migraine symptoms are: pain on one side of the head, throbbing/pulsating pain, nausea or vomiting, light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, and blurred vision. Once the headache is at its strongest many sufferers can only find a degree of comfort by lying down in a dark, quiet room with a cold compress to their forehead. Of course this can lead to a great disruption in a person’s ability to work, care for their family and enjoy a normal ability to engage in recreational activities.

Some folks experience what is called a prodrome before the actual onset of a headache. Prodrome symptoms for some might be blurred vision or a loss of peripheral vision. Others may feel a tingling sensation of the head or body. Still others may experience a sound sensation like a fluttering. There are other types of symptoms of prodrome but whatever one experiences the person knows the prodrome is a precursor to a migraine headache soon developing.

Exciting recent research has revealed that there can be help for many with this significant condition. Dr. Peter Tuchin performed a study as part of his PhD program at MacQuarrie University that showed positive results for those experiencing migraine headaches treated by doctors of chiropractic.

The study involved 123 people who had chronic migraine headaches-- the average length of time they’d had migraines was 18 years. Those involved in the study were divided into two groups. The first was a treatment group who received chiropractic care. The second was a control group who were told they were receiving a form of electrical physical therapy. The research study spanned six months. Both groups kept a record of their migraines for the full six months; noting how often they got headaches, how severe they were, how long they lasted and the amount of medications needed.

The findings of the study showed that around 22% of the patients had a substantial reduction-- which means that more than 60% of their symptoms were reduced during the course of treatment. Another 50% had a noticeable improvement-- meaning the frequency of the migraines was less, the length of time was shorter and they used less headache medication.

These findings are remarkable when considering the improvement seen with a chronic group. Dr. Tuchin also noted that reducing the amount of headache medicine utilized by patients is important as these are very strong drugs which have many side effects.

Dr. Tuchin concluded: “chiropractic is not the be-all and end-all, but for a good percentage of migraine sufferers… chiropractic treatment is really effective. I’m not saying that everybody is going to be cured, but there’s very little to lose”.

More information about the management and treatment of migraine headaches may be found here. Dr James Schofield's Pittsburgh North Hills chiropractic office has provided quality chiropractic care for over 31 years.

Small Problems As Kids Result in Big Problems As Adults

Posted on 09-06-2016

Now that September has arrived and children have returned to school it’s wise to be aware of some of the common physical stresses that can cause problems. It may come as a surprise to some that kids can have conditions like neck pain, lower back pain and headaches, but these complaints are actually quite common among youngsters.

In fact many health problems we face as adults start in childhood. It is certainly understandable that small problems when we’re young accumulate and in large into more significant conditions in adulthood.

With this in mind let’s consider several stresses that occur on a child’s body and how to prevent them.

Posture

Problems with posture appeared to be on the rise with many people globally, especially children. Researchers note this is most likely due to the increase of computers, cell phones, tablets and laptops. When we overuse these types of electronics our head is carried forward in relation to the rest of the body. Ideally our head should be carried back over our shoulders. Picture someone in the military standing at attention and you can visualize ideal posture for the head and upper body. When we have abnormal forward head posture it causes a strain on the neck and the upper back. In fact, researchers analyzed the posture of the 35 teens with neck pain and 35 of their asymptomatic peers. They found a distinct difference in cervical posture between the two groups.

There is actually a condition called “text neck” that describes the overuse of electronics resulting in poor posture and concomitant neck and upper back pain, and headaches.

To alleviate neck and upper back musculoskeletal problems in children and adults can first educate their kids about good upper body posture. One method is to imagine a string is attached to the very top of the head and is gently pulling directly upward. This simple method in itself will put most of us in a position of good posture. Parents also may need to limit time youngsters are using electronics and encourage them to engage in physical activity.

Injuries from Sports

When we think of sports injuries we tend to think of collision sports like football. Football whether played as midgets or in high school is certainly an activity that can result in injury. However sports like cheerleading, soccer, lacrosse and others can put a stress on a child’s body. Some sports such as swimming, running or baseball pitching have repetitive stresses that can accumulate and cause injury. If injury occurs it is wise to look at conservative, safe therapies. Chiropractic care is a treatment option that is effective and does not rely on the use of invasive procedures or medicines.

Strain from Backpacks

We are now aware that backpacks that kids carry to school can be a source of back pain if used improperly. It is important that children are encouraged to use both shoulder straps at all times to distribute weight evenly. It is also imperative that the backpack not be too heavy. Experts state that the backpack should not weigh more than 10% of the child’s body weight.

If a child complains of neck pain, upper back pain, lower back pain, or headaches it should not be ignored. Research study showed that 30% of young people report having back pain. If these conditions develop it is wise to consider seeing a Doctor of Chiropractic for consultation. Chiropractors are trained to examine problems of the spine. Chiropractic care has always been shown to be a possible solution to children experiencing painful conditions. Chiropractic therapy is safe, effective and does not involve the use of invasive procedures like surgery or the use of possibly harmful drugs and medications.

More information about healthy lifestyles and Dr. James Schofield's Pittsburgh North Hills chiropractic office can be found at this website

Should You Have Back Surgery?

Posted on 08-18-2016

When a person develops lower back pain that is significant and persists they eventually tend to see a health care specialist for help. The response and recommendations that the patient receives can vary quite substantially depending upon the professional visited. This article discusses some of the different opinions and therapies that a patient might encounter, as well as current research pertaining to lower back pain.

One of the types of practitioners a person suffering from low back pain might see is a medical doctor (M.D.). A M.D.’s approach can vary from conservative to aggressive. The most common conservative treatment is the use of anti-inflammatory medications. Additionally, physical therapy consisting of stretching and strengthening exercises might be utilized.

A doctor of medicine might also seek diagnostic investigation by having the patient undergo Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the lower spine. A MRI is a tool that allows healthcare specialists to see images or views of the anatomy of the lower back. Physical structures seen include the bones of the spine, called vertebrae, intervertebral discs, the spinal cord and its subsequent nerve roots.

A common finding seen on a MRI is an abnormality of an intervertebral disc. An intervertebral disc (also called a lumbar disc or simply “disc”) is a pad or shock absorber that sits between two vertebrae. The most common abnormal finding of a disc is a bulge or protrusion. A more concerning finding would be an extrusion of a lumbar disc.

In the past, a protrusion or bulge was thought to be a significant cause of back pain causation. However studies have shown, definitively, that this is not the case. A research study reported by doctors of the Mayo Clinic, published in the Journal of Neuroradiology in 2014 revealed that MRI findings of disc protrusion and disc degeneration are part of the normal aging process rather than a condition requiring back surgery. The researchers stated that most of the abnormal disc changes are no more significant than “gray hair or crow’s feet around their eyes”.

The best advice for anyone diagnosed with a “bad disc” is to seek conservative nonsurgical, drug-free chiropractic care first. Chiropractic treatment of lower back pain has had much success for over 100 years. Treatment given by doctors of chiropractic consists primarily of spinal manipulation. Spinal manipulation is a manual therapy given by a chiropractor to a patient to realign and correct abnormal movements of the spine and pelvis. These treatments are very safe and can help nearly 90% of cases where spinal mechanics, principally joint dysfunction, are the main cause of lower back pain.

Typically the only people who need drugs, injections, or surgery are those who suffer from infections such as staff, cancer, fractures or the one in 100 disc case that does not respond to chiropractic care.

So the next time you or someone you know is told you need disc surgery seek chiropractic care first and it is highly likely you will be pleased with the results.

More information about Dr. James Schofield and his Pittsburgh North Hills chiropractic office can be found at this website.

Chiropractic Care Could Make Primary Care Physician’s Job Easier

Posted on 07-28-2016

In recent years doctor’s visits for neck pain and lower back pain have increased substantially with corresponding large increases in expenses and expenditures. A recent research study indicates that chiropractors treating patients for neck and lower back pain may make primary care physician’s jobs easier.

Perhaps it is best to begin with some basic knowledge of neck and lower back pain. Most neck and lower back pain occur from improper movement or misalignments of the bones of the spine called vertebrae. These abnormalities of movement and alignment cause irritations to the nerves and joints of the spine which in turn cause spinal pain, muscle spasms and inflammation.

It has been well established over many years that chiropractic care, in the majority of cases, is able to correct mechanical abnormalities of the spine. Chiropractors use a variety of methods by either hands on or mechanical motions called manipulation or adjustment to re-position or improve movement of the vertebrae of the spine to remove interference and irritations. This type of therapy can actually correct the cause of the patient’s condition and pain.

A number of scientific studies have shown that treatment for neck care lower back pain administered by chiropractors is more effective than taking medications or receiving physical therapy or surgery for these conditions. Additionally chiropractic therapy has been shown to be an exceptionally safe method for treating neck and low back pain. Also, there is much research that shows chiropractic care is the most cost-effective way to save the health care system expenditures and expenses when it comes to these costly conditions. Consumer Reports magazine also showed, in a poll of its members, that chiropractors had very high satisfaction ratings in treating neck and lower back pain among all types of providers.

With this in mind, a scientific research study published in 2015 in the Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, showed that areas of the United States that had more chiropractors and thus greater availability of chiropractic services more patients with low back pain and neck pain tended to go to chiropractors versus primary care doctors.

This had two significant results. First, there was an expenditure savings to the health care system because of the cost saving approach of treatment by chiropractors. Second, the research article indicates that there is a shortage of primary care doctors in the United States and they and their staffs are “overstretched” in their ability to handle the number of patients that want to be seen. If more patients were encouraged to see chiropractors for their spinal pain it might free the offices of primary care physicians to be able to see patients with conditions more applicable to the PCP’s office’s expertise.

More thought and study is indicated in this area as everyone in health care want to determine the best allocation of resources and provide patients with the best healthcare possible.

More information about Dr James Schofield and his North Pittsburgh Chiropractic office can be found here.

Dr James Schofield Attends Chiropractic Treatment Workshop

Posted on 06-13-2016

Dr James Schofield attended a chiropractic treatment workshop called Myofascial Disruption Technique (MFDT) on June 11, 2016. MFDT is a method of diagnosing and treating soft tissue injuries of muscles, ligaments, tendons and fascia that are causing pain. These soft tissues may be contributing to headache, neck and back pain and can also affect the extremity areas such as the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee and ankle. MFDT allows Dr Schofield to help these injured areas to heal more quickly.

Dr. Schofield attended a workshop in Ft. Wayne, Indiana for this training and has had previous training in MFDT.

Dr James Schofield practices chiropractic care in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Dr James Schofield Attends Conference in New York

Posted on 06-09-2016

On June 4 and June 5, 2016 Dr James Schofield attended a conference in Melville, New York presented by the Academy of Chiropractic and Texas Chiropractic College. Several hundred doctors from throughout the United States attended.

Many topics were presented including how patient’s bodies and brains recognize and compensate for spinal pain of the neck and lower back. It was noted that chiropractic care for most neck and back pain is a safe, low cost and effective nondrug and surgery free method of treatment.

Much discussion was focused on accurately reading x-rays and MRI studies by the treating chiropractor. Chiropractors read MRIs and x-rays in much greater detail than many medical facilities such as urgent care centers and emergency departments and thus are better able to treat injuries and pain of the spine.

Dr James Schofield’s chiropractic office is in the North Hills of Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. He has been in practice for 31 years and holds licenses to practice chiropractic in Pennsylvania, Florida and New Jersey.

Could Chiropractic Care Improve Sleep Disorders?

Posted on 05-12-2016

Many people suffer from some type of sleep problems including insomnia, timing of sleep disorders, sleeping sickness and apnea. Other disorders include nightmares, sleepwalking and bedwetting. Could chiropractic treatments help these people to sleep better? Some new research shows this might, indeed, be the case.

It is estimated that one out of three people have insomnia at some point in their lives. Women are twice as likely as men to have difficulty falling and staying asleep. Pregnancy can worsen sleep patterns. Hormonal changes due to menopause cause changes in sleep. Over half of Americans over age 65 experience disturbed sleep. Sleep problems are responsible for an estimated $16 billion added to our national healthcare costs. More serious problems occur when automobile drivers nod off to sleep causing motor vehicle accidents, or when sleep deprivation is attributable to industrial disasters.

Generally adults require an average of 7.5 to 9.0 hours of sleep per night. But most of the US population gets much less than this amount.

Since the chiropractic profession’s inception in the late 1800s there have been many anecdotal incidents of patients claiming that they sleep better after receiving chiropractic care. Until lately there has not been much in the way of verified scientific data to explain this phenomenon of sleep improvement.

During research being conducted at the University of Madrid Medical School in Madrid, Spain in 2014 it was found that chiropractic manipulation increased a chemical in the brain called hypocretin. Hypocretins have been shown to increase another chemical in the body called serotonin. It is well-established for many years that serotonin is known for playing a role in the ability to get proper sleep.

While this research is relatively new and, certainly more research in this area is needed, there appears to be a valid scientific explanation of the results that many patients receiving chiropractic care have experienced.

The benefits of improving one’s sleep is significant in that getting a better night’s sleep can lead to having better body weight, having less depression and anxiety, controlling hypertension and lessening the effects of diabetes.

These types of changes can have a more global affect when we consider the overall cost of healthcare within not only our country but the worldwide population. Certainly if there was to be less obesity, depression and anxiety, diabetes and hypertension healthcare costs among the nations would be reduced impressively.

For those individuals plagued with a poor night sleep seeking help from a chiropractor is certainly indicated.

Spring Renewal!!

Posted on 04-28-2016

Spring! A time of renewal and growth. After a cold, snowy, bumpy winter we all need that.

The changing seasons remind us that there is a rhythm and balance in nature. Our bodies, too, need rhythm and balance. When these factors are disturbed by spinal misalignments, our bodies don’t function properly. Your chiropractic care helps restore that balance and allows your body to heal and function well – naturally – without drugs or invasive surgery.

So many times we allow minor aches to persist and continue. Then another ache comes along and then another. Soon we are putting up with daily misery. If this is your situation, now is the perfect time to put an end to pain.

Spring is a great time to get back on track so you can enjoy all the activities that our wonderful warm weather months afford.

Whether you are in pain, or would just like to get yourself a “tune-up” please give my office a call to schedule an appointment: 412-367-3313. We always stand ready to help you in your quest for good health.

Dr Schofield Attends Sports Injury Seminar

Posted on 03-08-2016

On March 5 and March 6, 2016 Dr Schofield attended a conference in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. The name of the seminar was Biomechanics And Imaging Of Sports Injuries.

The emphasis of study was first, directed at diagnosis by x-ray and MRI imaging of the injured athlete. Second, various case studies and hands-on treatment techniques for patients with injuries of shoulders, hips, knees, and ankles were presented. Many patients who have injuries of the extremities also have an underlying problem with the neck and lower back. So evaluating the patient’s whole structure must be performed.

Dr Schofield has been offering chiropractic services to the Pittsburgh North Hills area for 30 years.

Learn more by visiting Dr Schofield’s website: http://www.northhillspachiropractor.com

Doctor Schofield Attends Educational Conference

Posted on 02-11-2016

On February 6, 2016 Dr. James Schofield attended a chiropractic educational conference in Orlando Florida. Chiropractors from many areas of the country attended. Dr. Schofield is a chiropractor in the North Hills area of Pittsburgh Pa.

Some of the latest advances in chiropractic care were discussed at the conference.

Among the topics discussed were treatment of injuries from automobile accidents, lower back pain, neck pain, sciatica, herniated discs, and headaches. Emphasis was placed on methods to give patients the fastest relief of their conditions possible, and educating the patient about their problem to minimize reoccurrence.

Doctor Schofield regularly attends seminars, classes and conferences to stay current on health care treatment and developments. He maintains licenses to practice chiropractic in Pennsylvania, Florida and New Jersey.

To obtain more information about Doctor James Schofield’s Pittsburgh North Hills chiropractic office please visit this website http://www.northhillspachiropractor.com/

Who Goes To A Chiropractor?

Posted on 02-03-2016

Some might wonder: “Who would ever want go to a chiropractor”? While there are others who would ponder: “Why doesn’t everyone go to a chiropractor”? The profession of chiropractic certainly has had its polarizing aspects.

As a practicing chiropractor of over 30 years I believe I have seen all manner of chiropractic detractors and adherents. I can definitely see how observers, patients, non-patients and other healthcare professionals can be confused about the chiropractic profession.

I certainly don’t profess an ability to explain every aspect of chiropractic care and practice. However a background of experience, education, and knowledge permits me a certain degree of latitude to be able to detail some factual information regarding the profession of chiropractic and to extrapolate upon relevant research.

Gallup is a professional polling and survey company. In 2015 Gallup performed a study of 5442 adults in the United States regarding the chiropractic profession. This was the first ever nationally representative survey measuring perceptions of and experience with chiropractic among US adults.

The results revealed that about 50 percent of adults in the US have been to a chiropractor as a patient. About half of that group had been to a chiropractor in the last five years. A considerable number of this group had seen a chiropractor for neck and/or lower back pain.

This is significant and positive considering that 80 percent of the US population will have at least one disabling episode of lower back pain before the age of 40. Chiropractic care has been shown by many research studies to be the first line, primary conservative method for treating lower back pain.

The Gallup study further revealed that most of the respondents to their poll did not realize the extensive education that a chiropractor receives. Those surveyed did not realize that a chiropractor receives an education similar to other healthcare professions such as dentists, medical doctors and optometrists.

Gallup additionally noted that the survey revealed those who had never been to a chiropractor were concerned about safety. To those of us in the chiropractic profession this came as startling news because chiropractic care has been shown in numerous research studies to be exceedingly safe, especially for the treatment of the neck and lower back pain. With the public’s concern about safety of chiropractic treatment the profession is making an effort to expand its public relations in educating the general public and other healthcare professionals as to just how safe the rendering of chiropractic care truly is.

The Gallup study has provided a wealth of information regarding the profession of chiropractic and usage and perceptions by the general public. This is a great service as more awareness about care given by chiropractors will help the overall improvement of the health of the country.

The Cost-Effectiveness of Chiropractic Care

Posted on 01-29-2016

Many who are contemplating visiting a chiropractor are unsure of what it will cost. There is good news concerning the cost of chiropractic care. Charges in a chiropractic office are generally very affordable whether the patient plans to self-pay or utilize insurance benefits. Most mainstream, responsible health insurance policies have approved coverage of chiropractic treatment for many years. In addition, those who have been injured in an automobile accident have 100% coverage through their Pennsylvania automobile insurance.

Here are some facts regarding the cost-effectiveness of chiropractic care:

• * chiropractic care for neck and lower back pain is less costly than physical therapy, acupuncture, drugs/medicine and surgery
• * many companies note chiropractic coverage lowers their workers comp and medical costs
• * studies show patients receiving chiropractic care for neck and lower back pain recover more quickly than with other types of therapies or treatments resulting in lower overall costs.

Safety of Chiropractic

Posted on 01-20-2016

The popularity of chiropractic healthcare continues to grow, not only in the United States but also the entire world. Gallup recently conducted a poll noting that 50 percent of the United States population has been to a chiropractor. Yet, some wonder about the safety of chiropractic manipulation, also known as chiropractic adjustments.

When providing healthcare all practitioners are very concerned with not only administering the best healthcare, but are equally vigilant about the safest ways to help patients with relief of pain. Fortunately, studies give chiropractic care high marks in these efforts.

Most patients come to chiropractors for relief of pain from musculoskeletal conditions such as lower back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, shoulder and hip pain.

One study, analyzing the treatment of lower back pain, by the Agency on Health Care Policy and Research of the United States Department of Health and Human Services found the following:

• the risk of serious complications from lower back manipulation is rare
• conservative chiropractic treatment should be pursued before surgery

Another research study concerning the safety of chiropractic treatment for neck pain inSpine Research Journal noted: “The risk of a serious adverse event, immediately or up to seven days after treatment, is low to very low”.

Consumer Reports magazine in 2009 noted patient’s being treated for lower back pain by a chiropractor had higher satisfaction than when treated by physical therapists, acupuncturists, or primary care physicians.

Chiropractic Education Dr. James Schofield

Posted on 01-12-2016

A Doctor of Chiropractic must undergo an education that is similar in scope to other healthcare professionals such as a dentist, medical doctor or optometrist. Chiropractors must then pass national and state board examinations to become a licensed. Of course, as with all healthcare professionals, chiropractors participate in ongoing education throughout their careers.

To achieve a degree as a Doctor of Chiropractic a student must have an undergraduate degree at a traditional college or university. This is followed by five years of training at an accredited chiropractic college.

My personal record is a four-year undergraduate degree in human biology followed by a five-year degree as a Doctor of Chiropractic at National College of Chiropractic in Lombard, Illinois, near Chicago. National College of Chiropractic was established in 1906. Doctoral classes essentially are divided into two halves. The first half includes basic courses all doctors study, such as anatomy, chemistry, pathology and physiology. The second half deals more with clinical courses like diagnosis, x-ray, physiological therapeutics and spinal alignment correction called manipulation. Following the academic curriculum I served a one-year internship at various clinics and an inpatient chiropractic hospital, all in the Chicago area, treating a wide variety of cases.

To become licensed a chiropractor must pass national and state board examinations.

I became board-certified after passing the national board and passed and became licensed in Pennsylvania, Florida and New Jersey. I continue to maintain licenses in all three states.

After graduation, I worked for a Chiropractor in Florida, then as Director of a Chiropractic office in New Jersey. I began private practice in the North Hills of Pittsburgh in 1985.

To keep abreast of new concepts, developments and techniques in health care, I constantly attend seminars. For example, I completed over 300 hours of study in neurology, one of the most advanced courses of its type related to chiropractic care.

School Lunch Ideas

Posted on 01-05-2016

Although many of us from an older generation used to “brown bag” our lunches that doesn’t cut it anymore. Parents and children can easily overlook the necessity for healthy school lunches. Despite attempts to improve nutrition content the school cafeteria with its sloppy joes, pizza and heavily breaded chicken fingers may not be appropriate for overweight children or children with food and dietary sensitivities. It’s time to accept the fact that raising healthy children means they won’t be eating school cafeteria lunches, but instead will need to bring lunch from home. Here are some suggestions for how even the busiest parents can do it.

Packing:

Having the right containers will help a lot. Be sure to have an insulated lunch box so that food intended to be cold doesn’t end up warm by lunchtime and vice versa. Four small containers and a wide-mouth thermos will usually do the job. It’s a good idea to buy two sets of containers to avoid having to wash them each night.

Beverages:

It’s best to encourage your child to drink water using the wide-mouth thermos. Of course pop and soda should be avoided at all cost. Even juices are not necessarily of good nutrition. The American Academy of Pediatrics notes that juice consumption contributes to cavities and gastrointestinal problems for children. Milk can be a common food allergy and create sensitivity for many children.

Entrees:

Source of protein like cubes of baked chicken, turkey or fish are great. You can serve these in small portions and use them randomly over the course of several weeks. Hard-boiled eggs can also be used. Beans kept in the thermos and served with organic tortilla chips are another idea as well as stew and chili.

Sandwiches:

Better sandwich choices include using whole-wheat bread with lots of grains and almond butter instead of peanut butter. Another alternative is a healthy wrap using whole-grain tortillas with baked turkey or chicken and lettuce, cucumbers, tomato and peppers.

Side Dishes:

Many kids don’t consider lunch complete without cookies or chips. These must be avoided. They should only be an occasional treat and not a staple. Side dishes may include tasty, crisp vegetables—the greener, the better. Fruit is also healthy but can be a major source of sugar. Try to serve just one fruit serving for every five servings of veggies.

Other Factors:

Organically grown foods have been shown to be more nutrient and vitamin dense than foods grown with pesticides. Although organic foods are more expensive the prices are now coming down even though you are paying more you’re getting more in return.

And no one knows better than your own child what they are going to eat so let them help you pack their lunches. Children like to participate this will help them learn what’s healthy and they will be more likely to enjoy their meals. Every Sunday have them help you choose the week’s menu and you both can begin pre-packing those options that can be frozen or stored for a few days.

A balanced diet is more than just a healthy recommendation. It is the building block of your child’s growth and well-being. Remember, it’s your responsibility and not the school cafeteria to provide them with the right food.